Jaishankar Highlights Stability in India-Russia Ties During Summit

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has characterized the relationship between India and Russia as one of the most stable partnerships among major countries over the past seven to eight decades. Speaking at the Hindustan Times Leadership Summit on March 16, 2024, Jaishankar emphasized that President Vladimir Putin’s recent visit to New Delhi was focused on reshaping economic engagement, particularly through enhanced trade cooperation.

During the summit, Jaishankar addressed concerns regarding the impact of Putin’s two-day visit on India’s negotiations with the United States for a bilateral trade agreement. “I don’t share that view,” he stated firmly. “It is well understood internationally that India maintains ties with all major powers. It would be unreasonable for any country to assume it can influence or restrict how we manage our relations with others.”

Jaishankar reiterated that discussions with Russia, aimed at expanding economic linkages, should not be perceived as conflicting with India’s ongoing negotiations with Washington. “For any country to expect to have a veto or a say in how we develop our relations with others is not a reasonable proposition,” he added.

The minister acknowledged the heightened focus on trade during the Trump administration, noting that India’s approach is guided by national interests. “Trade is the most important issue right now,” he pointed out. “We have to be extremely judicious about our position and what we put on the table,” he said, highlighting the importance of protecting livelihoods in India as the two nations work towards a potential trade deal.

India and the United States are currently navigating a challenging phase in their relationship, marked by a significant 50 percent tariff imposed by Washington on Indian goods, including a 25 percent levy on Indian purchases of Russian crude oil. Despite these challenges, Jaishankar expressed optimism about finding a landing point for mutual trade interests, emphasizing the need for hard negotiations.

Jaishankar also reflected on Putin’s visit, describing it as a step towards reimagining the India-Russia partnership. He noted that the visit aimed to build dimensions in their relationship that were previously lacking. One major outcome discussed was a mobility agreement, which would allow Indians to access work opportunities in Russia more seamlessly. Another significant agreement involved a joint venture on fertilizers, responding to India’s status as the world’s second-largest fertilizer importer after Brazil.

On the topic of India’s relations with China, Jaishankar underscored that peace and tranquility in border areas are prerequisites for improved ties. He acknowledged that while border issues are crucial, there are also various other matters to address, including trade, investment, and competition.

Addressing the challenges posed by Pakistan, Jaishankar highlighted that many of India’s issues stem from the Pakistani military’s actions and its support for terrorist groups. “Much of our problems actually emanate from them,” he stated, underscoring the need to view India and Pakistan as separate entities in terms of their capabilities and reputations.

Regarding India’s relationship with Bangladesh, Jaishankar expressed that India is a well-wisher of the country and hopes for a democratic process that reflects the people’s will. He expressed confidence that the outcome of this process would enhance bilateral relations.

Jaishankar’s remarks during the summit reflect India’s strategic focus on maintaining strong relationships with multiple global powers while prioritizing national interests in trade and diplomacy. As India continues to navigate complex international dynamics, the emphasis on economic engagement with Russia and the ongoing discussions with the United States will play critical roles in shaping its foreign policy landscape.